Why do Varicose Veins Develop?

Varicose veins are a major problem for many people today. As much as 55% of all women — and a significant number of men — are dealing with varicose veins right now. Varicose veins look like knotty ropes that are straining to emerge from the skin, and they can be both embarrassing and painful. Many patients who suffer from these veins wonder exactly why they happen. These are the reasons that varicose veins develop.

Weakness in the Veins

Varicose veins usually happen because of weakness in the veins. The job of the veins is to send blood to your heart after it’s been circulated through the body. Veins are topped with valves, which are small built-in mechanisms that keep the blood moving upwards towards the heart. The valves are topped by flaps called cusps, which open to let the blood move upwards. If the blood starts moving down (the wrong direction,) the cusps should close to prevent this from happening. However, the veins may weaken, which means that the blood no longer moves consistently upwards as it should. This results in blood pooling in the lower part of the body, which in turn results in varicose veins.

Risk Factors For Varicose Veins

There are many possible risk factors for varicose veins, including:

Age: People over 50 have an increased risk of varicose veins.

Genetics: If you have an immediate family member with varicose veins, you’re more likely to have them too.

Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes, for example those during menopause, may cause varicose veins.

Extra Weight: Extra weight can put pressure on the blood vessels. This leads to vein valve weakening and varicose veins.

Prolonged Periods of Inactivity: When inactive, circulation can stall. This can result in blood pooling in the lower body, and this can lead to varicose veins.

No matter why the varicose veins developed, L.A. Vein Center can help you get rid of them at last.